On Thursday, May 15, 2025, the Maine Supreme Judicial Court issued an order appointing Karen Bilodeau, Esq., and Emma Bilodeau, Esq., as co-receivers of the law practice of Attorney Paul R. Dionne – Dionne & Couturier, LLC. The decision follows a petition from the Board of Overseers of the Bar.
The case is entitled “In the Matter of Paul R. Dionne,” with case no. BAR-25.
Effective immediately, the co-receivers are tasked with taking full control of the law practice. Their responsibilities include securing professional files, managing firm and client funds, and taking possession of all property belonging to the law office, regardless of its location. They are also charged with securing the physical office space and accessing computer hardware, software, and mobile devices used for business purposes.
Additionally, the co-receivers will gain access to email accounts, cloud storage, and post office boxes to manage legal and fiduciary mail. They are directed to inventory client files, prioritize active and time-sensitive cases, and assist clients in finding new counsel. The order authorizes the hiring or retention of staff and volunteers, if funds allow, to support these efforts.
The co-receivers will notify former clients of the receivership, allowing them to retrieve their property where possible, and inform relevant courts and state, federal, and county agencies of the appointment. They are granted signatory authority over all financial accounts, including operating, IOLTA, payroll, fiduciary, and trust accounts, to prudently manage and distribute funds.
Karen and Emma Bilodeau will serve on a pro bono basis, though reimbursement from the law practice’s assets is possible if sufficient funds exist. A status report is required within 120 days. Attorney Mara RH King, Esq., is appointed as a limited co-receiver to handle cases posing conflicts for the primary co-receivers.
A copy of the original filing can be found here.
